"The Swan Princess" lacquer box

Artist: Latina  
Village:  Palekh 
Size: 3.25" x .75" 
Year: 1975

This round Russian lacquer box, painted in 1975 in the renowned village of Palekh, beautifully illustrates a dramatic moment from the Russian fairy tale The Swan Princess. In the scene, a noble prince stands poised on the shore, bow in hand, as he releases an arrow toward a menacing hawk swooping down from the sky. Below, the radiant Swan Princess rises gracefully from the waves, her golden wings illuminated by the setting sun. The hawk, a symbol of danger, threatens the swan’s transformation, but the prince's brave act ensures her safety. Rendered in the classic Palekh style with vivid colors, intricate detail, and delicate gold accents, the scene unfolds against a deep black background. A decorative gold border encircles the box, completing this exquisite tribute to courage, magic, and love in Russian folklore.  The box is signed on the bottom of the composition with the name of the artist, village and a number from the workshop where Palekh artists were doing their art work back then.  The words "Made in USSR" are written on the bottom of the box. Still shiny with slight texture due to age.  No significant cracks or flaws.